How To Pick the Right Sleeve Length For Your Blouse!
BY Sakshi | 09 Nov, 2017 | 52602 views | 5 min read
Cap sleeves, full sleeves, 3/4th sleeves, no sleeves or halter etc etc etc- there are so many sleeve types to choose from, and it can be quite a task to pick what would suit you! Yes, you look great in a noodle strap top, but that doesn't mean that it's the style that will flatter you the most when you wear that bridal lehenga of yours!
Image via Dhara Shah
So here is a quick guide on how to pick the perfect sleeve length for any blouse- whether it's with a bridal lehenga, a saree or a light flowy one for one of the smaller functions!
Full Sleeves
Image via George Seemon Photography
- This type goes well with every kind of body and is very flattering.
- Works very well for brides who are either too heavy or too lean- heavy brides should go for a deeper neckline and back.
- Stick to fabrics like georgette , chiffon and net. Silk full sleeves, while doable are reccomended only for very slim brides.
- Depending on your built, choose the material- thinner material for heavier brides an thicker for leaner brides.
Quarter or 3/4th Sleeves
Image via Mohita Nangia Makeup Artist
- This style is also one that suits every body type, from lean to heavy and makes a lehenga look elegant
- These provide the illusion of looking taller, so if you are a short bride, this style can add the illusion of a few inches.
- They cover up bony or heavy arms well.
- A very good option for voluptuous brides.
- The fitting of the sleeves in this style is very important. A loose fit can make your arms look very heavy.
Half Sleeves
Image via Amit - Fine Art Photographer & Filmmaker
- These sleeves can end up looking slightly casual if not worn well.
- The place where the sleeve cuts of makes a huge difference. Keep it definitely longer than 4 inches.
- Avoid getting heavy borders on the sleeve when your sleeves are this length
- If the neck of your blouse is too deep, then these are the best, most ideal sleeves to opt for.
Elbow-length Sleeves
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- These sleeves are conservative, yet look very contemporary, more than half or 3/4th sleeves.
- They can be worn by skinny or heavy brides, but again, the material matters a lot.
- Heavier brides should not get these sleeves made in a thick material and with a lot of work on them, which will attract more attention to the upper part of the body.
- The fitting of a sleeve like this one is super important. Make sure it fits perfectly.
Sleeveless
Image via Ablaze by Simran Takkar
- They look best on lean brides, and avoid these if you have heavy upper arms.
- These might not be the best option to rock for a bridal lehenga, as the sleeves can add a lot more to the 'bridal look'
- You also might want to avoid this style if you have a heavy bust as it can attract more attention to it.
Puffy Sleeves
Image via The Memory Writers
- A very popular option for South Indian brides, not so much for North Indian ones.
- Avoid this if you have a chubby face, it can make it look heavier.
- This is a great option for extremely lean or flat-chested brides to add some form and shape to their figure.
Noodle Straps or Spaghetti Sleeves
Image via Tania & Vidhu (Thailand)
- A great look if you have the arms and shoulders to pull this off.
- This works for those looking for an unconventional look, might not be the best ideas for brides looking to cover up.
- Great for smaller functions or bridesmaids, not so much for the bridal lehenga.
Halter
Image via Manish Malhotra
- Another unconventional choice for brides if you are looking for something offbeat.
- Not a very good idea for brides with broad shoulders.
- This style can work very well for brides with an hourglass figure.
- If you have a chubby face, then stay away from the high-neck variety of these, they will make you look chubbier.
Off Shoulder
Image via KamalDeep Morya Makeup & Hairstylist
- A great idea for smaller functions like the Mehendi or the Sangeet.
- Looks great with lehengas and western clothes alike, and is very trending these days.
- Great to show off if you have killer collar bones.
- Stay away if you have a heavy bust or a plump shoulder or back, which can look unappealing.
Cape Sleeves
Image via Nitin Arora Photography
- Great for petite brides.
- Avoid this if you are on the heavier side, as it can add the illusion of a few pounds.
- Brides with a heavy bust or chubby face should also avoid this style.
Bell Sleeves
Image via Vasansi
- Great for petite or super skinny brides.
- Avoid this if you are on the heavier side, as it can add the illusion of a few pounds.
- Brides with a heavy bust or chubby face should also avoid this style.
Strapless or Bustier
Image via Payal Singhal
- A great look if you have the arms, shoulders and waist to pull this off.
- This works for those looking for an unconventional look, might not be the best ideas for brides looking to cover up.
- Is a great option for athletic brides or those with a slim straight figure.
- Not the best idea for busty brides, this can attract way more attention than you want!
- Great for smaller functions or bridesmaids, not so much for the bridal lehenga.
Drop Shoulder or Falling Sleeves
Image via Yoshita Couture
- A great idea for smaller functions like the Mehendi or the Sangeet.
- Looks great with lehengas and western clothes alike, and is very trending these days.
- Is a more ideal style than off shoulder for heavier brides.
- Stay away if you have a heavy bust or broad shoulders- it can make you look very top heavy.
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